58th Nigerian Independence Day celebrated at Town Hall

Celebrations for the 58th Independence Day of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Celebrations for the 58th Independence Day of the Federal Republic of Nigeria took place on Monday (1 October) at Rochdale Town Hall.

The Town Hall reception was packed out by the local Nigerian community, which was also attended by local councillors and MPs Liz McInnes and Tony Lloyd.

The celebrations began with traditional music and dance, prayers and blessings, plus a presentation and cake cutting.

Mayor Mohammed Zaman said: “Rochdale is proud to celebrate its diversity, and this is another positive step to ensure that all our communities, regardless of their faith and cultural background, are valued and supported.

“It was a great honour for me as a Mayor of Rochdale to celebrate with the Nigerian community. 

"Nigeria has very old and interesting history, tracing back to 1,100BC. The country, which has a population of 186 million people became independent from the British in 1960.

“The British took control of Nigeria in 1851 and continued until 1960, when independence was granted to Nigeria, a beautiful country with incredible landscapes and charming weather attracts visitors from all over the world.

“Christianity and Islam are the main religions along with other traditional faiths and beliefs.  People of Nigeria speak English, Housa, Ibgo, Youraba and some other dialects. 

£I would like to thank all members of Nigerian community, guests and our town hall staff.”